After a manicure, the fun isn’t over yet! You need to care for your nails at home in order to make sure that your manicure stays gorgeous and lasts as long as possible. Here are some great at-home nail care tips to use after you have your nails done at the salon!
Don’t scratch your nails
As tempting as it is, try not to scratch your nails after you’ve had a manicure. This can rip off your fresh polish and damage your nail beds. It’s also best not to cut or file your nails until they’re completely dry. Try leaving your hands out of water for at least half an hour after your manicure so that they have time to air-dry naturally and prevent chipping on your nails.
Protect them from sharp objects
If you get manicures often, it’s important to protect your nails from sharp objects at home. Using gloves or other protective gear when cleaning and cooking can prevent painful tears in your nail beds. (Bonus: Chipped polish is also less noticeable when it’s under cover.) If you do tear a nail, carefully push back the skin around it with soap and water and apply an over-the-counter topical antibiotic if you have one.
Keep them clean
Many manicure products leave remnants that can build up over time and affect nail health. However, you don’t need to cut your nails or spend tons of money at a salon. The key is cleaning your nails effectively and consistently. You should give yourself frequent manicures so you keep them clean, but when it comes down to it, even once every few weeks will do. Keep nails clean after manicure by using cuticle remover and rinsing with warm water before each shower.
Let them breathe
Let your nails breathe after a manicure, especially if you don’t get it at home. That means no touch typing, texting or washing dishes until they’re completely dry. Drying time is affected by humidity, temperature and airflow; give them plenty of time after you have them done professionally—they may take up to 24 hours! Try using lightweight cotton gloves in bed. I also recommend keeping cuticle oil on hand after your manicure so that you can treat them with some love at home.
Use cuticle oil
There are some aftercare tips that your manicurist might forget to tell you, including one of our favorites: cuticle oil. Using cuticle oil after a manicure will ensure that your new polish lasts longer and stays looking fresh. We like Cilverbow Botanicals Oil for nails, hands, and cuticles because it comes in a convenient rollerball applicator. It also absorbs into skin quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
Wait before applying polish again
To prevent dry, flaky nails and other damage after you get manicures, it’s important to wait before applying polish again. The main reason why is because polish is often removed from your nail plate with acetone, which dries out your nails and skin. You should also consider skipping polishing altogether between professional appointments or have your nail tech apply a top coat after removing her or his own polish. At home remedies can also help, such as applying cuticle oil before bed each night.
Are you taking care of your nails after a manicure? Let us know in the comments.